Randonneuring is long-distance endurance cycling with rides of 200, 300, 400, 600 and 1000 kilometres, collectively known as Brevets de Randonneurs Mondiaux (BRMs).
These rides are governed internationally by (ACP), which oversees the conduct of BRMs worldwide.
Randonneuring is non-competitive in nature. Riders must be self-sufficient while completing the distance within specified time limits, passing through designated control points.
A Randonnée is an organised long-distance cycling event that must be completed within a specified time limit and is typically self-supported. These events are not races; all riders who finish within the time limits receive equal recognition regardless of their finishing order.
Riders are issued a brevet card at the start of the ride, which must be carried throughout the event and stamped at designated checkpoints.
Checkpoints, also referred to as controls, are predetermined locations such as bakeries, cafés, or service stations. Riders must reach each checkpoint within the prescribed cut-off time.
The brevet card must be signed at the checkpoint by a staff member or co-rider. If no one is available, ATM receipts are accepted as proof of passage. Failure to reach a checkpoint within the cut-off time may lead to disqualification.
A Randonneur is a cyclist who participates in organised endurance cycling events known as Randonnées.
A brevet card is carried by the rider and is used to record the date and timestamp at each checkpoint and at the finish of the ride. The completed card is submitted to the organiser for validation.
Brevet cards are provided at the start of calendar rides. For non-calendar or special events, riders may need to request the brevet card from the organiser in advance.
Homologation is the official validation of a completed ride by the organiser. Upon successful verification, a unique homologation number is issued to the rider, serving as an official record of the completed event.
Brevets de Randonneur Mondiaux (BRMs) are fixed-distance rides that must be completed within defined time limits. Successful completion requires passing all pre-determined controls within the allowed time.
| Distance | Maximum Time Limit |
|---|---|
| 200 km | 13.5 hours |
| 300 km | 20 hours |
| 400 km | 27 hours |
| 600 km | 40 hours |
| 1,000 km | 75 hours |
| 1,200 km | 90 hours |
| Flèche | 24 hours |
Time limits are defined by Audax Club Parisien (ACP) and apply uniformly across all BRM events worldwide.
A Super Randonneur (SR) is a rider who completes a full series of BRMs within a single randonneuring season.
To qualify as an SR, a rider must successfully complete:
| BRM Distance | Requirement |
|---|---|
| 200 km | Finish within time limit |
| 300 km | Finish within time limit |
| 400 km | Finish within time limit |
| 600 km | Finish within time limit |
All four rides must be completed in the same season.
| Aspect | BRM | Flèche | PBP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distance | Fixed (200–1200 km) | Route-based | 1,200 km |
| Time Limit | Distance-specific | 24 hours | 90 hours |
| Ride Format | Individual | Team | Individual |
| Frequency | Multiple per season | Limited events | Every 4 years |
PBP refers to, the most prestigious event in randonneuring.
The first brevet in India was a 200 km event held in Mumbai on 31 January 2010. In 2010, India’s first overnight BRMs were introduced, including 400 km and 600 km rides.
In 2011, Indian riders participated in Paris-Brest-Paris for the first time. Since then, randonneuring in India has grown through volunteer-driven clubs across the country.
The long-term vision is to attract international participation and strengthen India’s presence in the global randonneuring community.